DeSales Men’s Basketball to Play at Historic Palestra Against Penn

The DeSales University men’s basketball team will play on one of college basketball’s most iconic stages when the Bulldogs face the University of Pennsylvania on Nov. 16 at the Palestra in Philadelphia.

The game is part of the venue’s yearlong Palestra 100 celebration, which marks the arena’s 100th anniversary. Known as the “Cathedral of College Basketball,” the Palestra opened in 1927 and has hosted legendary players, championship teams and memorable moments. The matchup gives DeSales student-athletes a rare chance to compete in one of the sport’s most revered venues.

“We are thankful to Coach Fran McCaffery and the Penn basketball staff for giving our team this opportunity,” said Scott Coval, DeSales men’s basketball head coach and director of athletics. “Players and coaches are excited to compete against the defending Ivy League champions and to play at the historic Palestra.”

Coval has established DeSales as one of the region’s premier NCAA Division III programs and ranks among the winningest active coaches in Division III basketball.

The game against the Quakers is one of several special events being held as part of the Palestra 100 celebration, which recognizes the arena’s lasting impact on the sport. It places the Bulldogs on a court long synonymous with basketball tradition in Philadelphia and beyond.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to play at an arena with the history of the Palestra,” said forward Will Meeker ’27. “This will be an amazing experience. As for the game, we have to approach it and prepare for it as any other game. At the end of the day we are there to compete and play the best we can.”

Alumni, students, families and friends of the University are encouraged to attend and support the Bulldogs.

Tickets are available through Penn Athletics’ regular ticket sales channels. For ticket information, visit pennathletics.evenue.net/event/MB26/MB01.